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Superseding Indictment Adds Third Leader in Kingdom of God Global Church Forced-Labor Case

Prosecutors portray an operation that coerced unpaid call-center fundraising, funneling donations to personal luxuries.

Overview

  • Filed Feb. 11, the superseding indictment names Kathleen Klein, 53, known as “Prophetess,” as a leader and executive in the alleged scheme.
  • Prosecutors say call centers in Michigan, Missouri, Florida and Texas forced unpaid, grueling shifts enforced by humiliation, sleep deprivation, physical abuse, withheld food and shelter, and threats of divine judgment.
  • Investigators allege roughly $50 million raised since 2014 was diverted to personal real estate, vehicles, travel and other luxury goods.
  • The new filing adds allegations that David E. Taylor repeatedly requested sexually explicit photos and videos from female church workers.
  • A hearing was held Tuesday in Detroit as the case moves forward; Klein is charged with conspiracy to commit forced labor carrying up to 20 years in prison, while David Taylor and Michelle Brannon remain charged in the broader case.